NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell decided not to attend tonight’s season opener in New England, but Patriots fans made sure Goodell knew they were thinking of him.
After the Patriots took a 28-14 lead in the fourth quarter, a loud “Where is Roger?” chant began at Gillette Stadium.
The answer is that Goodell is watching the game on TV. Although the commissioner usually attends the first game of the season, Goodell decided not to show his face in the stadium where he’s a much-hated man after he attempted to suspend Tom Brady for the first four games of the season.
Goodell probably won’t be at any games in New England this season, as there’s a great deal of anger and mistrust between the league office and the folks in New England. But Patriots fans will hope that they get to see Goodell in the one game the commissioner absolutely must attend, the Super Bowl. The way the defending champs have played tonight, that looks entirely possible.